Implementing creative solutions that support thriving nature and people in the face of a changing climate is an essential aspect of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) ’s conservation priorities. The Project Manager – Nature Based Solutions provides technical, project-based leadership and support to projects in urban, rural and marine environments of Western Washington that test, implement, and demonstrate the power and possibilities of Nature Based Solutions to address challenging societal and conservation problems.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Project Manager- Nature Based Solutions (Project Manager) provides technical, project-based leadership and support to design, test and implement Nature Based Solutions. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) defines Nature Based Solutions (NBS) as practices that weave natural features or processes into the built environment to promote adaptation and resilience in efforts to combat climate change, reduce flood risks, improve water quality, protect coastal property, restore and protect wetlands, stabilize shorelines, reduce urban heat, add recreational space, and more.
- Project Management (60%)
- The position manages all aspects of technical project management, in coordination and collaboration with project teams, consultants and contractors, and community partners.
- Project management includes project-specific budget and deliverable management, scope of work development and project tracking.
- Projects may include NBS efforts in urban, rural and marine landscapes and seascapes of Washington state.
- Community and Partner Relationship Building and Maintenance (20%)
- The Project Manager will support the Urban Program Director to work collaboratively with local partners in project development and implementation ensuring community needs and support are incorporated in project planning and outcomes.
- Team Engagement, Cross-Team Collaboration and Admin (20%)
- They will also collaborate with other TNC conservation and science staff working on NBS projects, policy, and programs in Washington State, and potentially beyond. This cross-team collaboration among NBS work will be essential in ensuring projects are integrated internally to maximize impact and learning.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
Within the scope of the position, the Project Manager will:
- Manage NBS projects within Western Washington state, which may include green stormwater infrastructure-based projects and others that work with nature to address societal and conservation challenges.
- Responsible for all aspects of project management including coordination within and across teams, budget management, communications and reporting to ensure deliverables are met and timelines are maintained.
- Work collaboratively with and across internal TNC teams to coordinate project work and meet project outcomes and maintain flexibility in collaborating with individuals with different work styles internal and external to TNC.
- Build and maintain relationships with external partners, contractors, and community groups to ensure community needs are considered and incorporated to maximize project benefits to nature and people.
- Seek out new technical or organizational tools and techniques when needed to organize and accomplish project objectives.
- Support public and private grant writing and reporting.
- Develop and maintain the ability to use an equity lens in planning and implementing project work.
- Perform tasks with minimal supervision and make independent decisions based on analysis, experience, and context.
- May supervise technical, administrative and/or professional staff with responsibility for performance management, training, and development. Ensure program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
Work Environment and Schedule:
- Preferred location for this position is based in either TNC’s Seattle or Mount Vernon offices. Flexible work arrangements in Western Washington State will be considered.
- Position may require occasional (sometimes overnight) travel to regional meetings, project sites, and events.
- May require working extended and/or varied work hours, including on weekends.
- Work may include some time in the outdoor environment and remote locations in varying weather conditions (sun, rain, snow) and sometimes rough terrain.